#second hand lcd monitor

[zylcd]

How to clean and maintain industrial control displays?

You need to be extra careful when cleaning and maintaining industrial control displays, because industrial environments are usually more severe, with dust, oil, chemicals, static electricity, etc. Moreover, the display may have integrated touch functions. It is best to follow the correct steps to clean and maintain it in order to effectively extend its service life and avoid damage. Below, the editor will explain to you how to clean and maintain industrial control displays.

1. Preparation before cleaning is crucial: Before cleaning the industrial control display, be sure to disconnect the power supply and confirm the screen material. Prepare cleaning tools such as microfiber cloth/dust-free cloth, special screen cleaner or distilled water/purified water, air blower, etc. Avoid using corrosive cleaners such as alcohol and ammonia.

2. Correct cleaning steps are key: First, blow away the dust with an air blower, then spray a small amount of detergent on a clean microfiber cloth and gently wipe the screen in one direction. Use a cotton swab to clean the edge gaps, and finally wipe the screen with a dry, clean cloth to ensure that there are no water stains and detergent residues.

3. Daily maintenance cannot be ignored: Regular cleaning (once a week/month) is a must. Reduce the number of times you touch the screen, avoid liquid splashing, and avoid direct sunlight. Keeping the environment clean and reducing static electricity can effectively extend the life of the display.

4. Special screens require special treatment: Be more careful when cleaning touch screens (capacitive screens/resistive screens), avoid using corrosive detergents, and pay attention to strength control. It is crucial to understand the characteristics of different screens and choose the right cleaning method.

5. Avoid wrong cleaning methods: Do not use ordinary paper towels or rough cloth to wipe to avoid scratching the screen. Do not spray detergent directly on the screen to prevent liquid from penetrating. Avoid pressing the screen too hard to damage the LCD panel. Choosing the right cleaning tools and methods is the key to ensuring screen safety.

In short, regular and correct cleaning and maintenance, combined with good environmental control and operating habits, can effectively extend the service life and reliability of industrial control displays in harsh industrial environments. If you are not sure what to do, you can first refer to the equipment manual and consult the equipment supplier.

With over 18 years of expertise, Shenzhen Zhiyan Optronics Co., Ltd. (zylcdshop.com) is a trusted supplier based in China, specializing in high-performance LCD screens. We deliver tailored display solutions, consistent quality, and competitive factory-direct pricing to meet diverse industry needs.

[betterbooktitles]

The screen I spend the most time with these days is a black LCD monitor attached to a PC in an indie bookshop on Long Island. I spend whole days looking at point-of-sale software called Anthology which also keeps track of the store’s inventory. Often, it’s accurate. Occasionally, it says we have three copies of The Bell Jar that have simply disappeared from the face of the Earth. No one stole them. They were raptured, like socks that never make it out of the dryer.

If you’ve never worked a retail job, let me tell you what it’s like: you come in with a little spring in your step, caffeinated, and ready to greet your coworkers and update them on how terrible your last shift without them was. Though the memory of the previous shift’s slog might give you a little anxiety, and though a hangover can make your fuse a little short, you’re in a better mood at the start of the day than at the end. Tedious tasks like ordering and unboxing books (sci-fi movies did not prepare me for how much cardboard there would be in the future) seem manageable in the morning. Customers seem kind. The items you’re selling feel necessary to human happiness. Whatever is going on in your life is put on pause to manage store operations, and time flies. Then, by 3 PM, whether you had time for lunch or not, you wish you had done anything else with your day — or, better yet — your life. 

While the back-straining work of moving inventory around the store or walking the floor helping customers all day without a second to sit down might make you physically tired, the real work of retail is mental and forces employees to become part-machine. Retail workers have to ask the same three questions (“Rewards?” “Bag?” “Receipt?”) and reply to the same three questions (“Have it?” “Bathroom?” “Manager?!?!?”) for 8-10 of their most worthwhile waking hours. 

In bookstores, there is the added expectation that while you’re participating in this mind-numbing routine, you’re at least able to pretend to like and engage with literature. I'm not arguing that people working at Old Navy aren’t eloquent or as over-educated for their job as I am. If they aren’t teenagers, most retail employees I’ve encountered have, by virtue of talking to coworkers and customers all day, the same high emotional intelligence as the smartest people I know who chain smoke outside bars. Still, my guess is that it’s rare for a customer to see a clothing store employee folding clothes, and think “I wonder what their opinion is of the latest Ann Patchett book” or “I wonder if they read Knausgård and run a book club when they’re not helping me find jeans in my size.” People see booksellers doing the same tedious tasks as any other retail employee and assume they not only possess unlimited knowledge about the state of publishing but also have unlimited hours to read while in the store. Customers hold booksellers to an impossible intellectual standard. When they fail to live up to said standard, they’re subjected to conversations like this:

“You haven’t read the latest Kingsolver?” a customer will ask, “Why not? What about this one? Or that one? It’s so good though! I thought you would have read all of these!” 

What’s a shame is that they think they’re being kind when they half-recommend, half-admonish bookstore employees. Worse are the people who are flat-out rude. Case in point, a man came into the store at hour six of my shift, and without any preamble, treating me like I was a human Google search bar, said the name of an author, then started spelling the name. When I asked for a second to look up what I assumed he was asking for, he rolled his eyes and began spelling slowly and loudly: “PAUL. P…A…U…” 

Sadly, I’m too old to be treated that way and without thinking I raised my hand and said sternly “Don’t do that.” Now some oblivious retired banker is walking around Long Island asking himself why indie booksellers are so mean. My Midwestern niceness has disappeared, my helpful attitude is now nonexistent. I have been worn down by the people I’m paid to be kind to.

Read the rest here.

[rena657]

DMC Canonical Ages and Years

This is a thorough explanation. I did this before titled "Devil May Cry Ages" is short tbh. We have to discuss first the DMC5 Calendar. This was explained by Amanda or @flopity-flips before. Shout out to them

Here is the link for what she did

The picture is taken from the DMC5 Artbook. As you can see, the days of the week is not English, but German. While, the month is in English. Luckily, for us.. since Amanda did it first. She stated that DMC5 happened in May of 2016.

You can see that both the in-game calendar and English calendar have May 1 and May 8 in Sonntag/Sunday. The idea is to find a month and year that have this specific order and it should end in May 31 that falls in Tuesday.

Then, what about the year? Remember what Itsuno said in his 3142 Graphic Arts interview? He said that from DMC1 to 4 are all set in the 1980s. However, as we see in DMC5 we can conclude that era is set in modern 2000s and most likely 2010s where a modern flatscreen LCD TV monitor and flatscreen desktop computer monitor exist.

Remember the fictional DMC world (Earth/Human World) is not on par of what we have in the real world, when regards to technology

Another reasoning is that Nero and Nico knows early classic memes that are popular during early 2010s. Most notable in the DMC5 Van sticky notes are the PBJT (Peanut Butter Jelly Time) created in 2002 and Doge meme that was created in 2013

We can conclude that Visions of V and DMC5 happened in 2016, not 2011 nor 2005. Since that is 3 years after Doge meme was created

With that said.. let's go in reverse order

Before the Nightmare novel is split up into two parts, if you have read the fan translation. First half (Chapter 1 to Chapter 7: interlude) happens 5 years after DMC4, while the second half (Chapter 8 to Epilogue) happened a year after

This means that the novel's year setting is both in 2015 and 2016, while DMC4/Deadly Fortune novel happened in 2010

DMC2 novel and DMC2 happened in the same year after 2007 DMC Anime happened. It happened 10 years/decades ago from Before the Nightmare. The DMC2 novel has an epilogue chapter when Dante was invited to go to the museum

DMC Anime and CD Drama, DMC2 novel, and DMC2 happened in 2006

What about DMC1? Happened 20 years after the First Red Grave. Means Dante is already 28 by this time.

DMC3 is like Before the Nightmare. I said this.. It's because of the difference on how Dante said it in Mission 1 and Mission 7. Note that Vergil is older than Dante by several hours according to Bingo Morihashi's 3142 artbook interview, meaning Dante was only 18 and by Mission 7 he is 19. While Vergil, is 19 at the start of the game. Using the word "nearly" means its very close to one year

DMC3 manga happened after DMC1 novel as both events happened 10 years after First Red Grave incident, when Dante and Vergil are 18 years old

Also in DMC1 novel that Dante drifted two years ago meaning he drifted into the unnamed DMC1 town when he was 16

Vergil, on the other hand mentioned by Sanctus that Nero was 16 or 17 and he met Vergil 17 years ago, meaning that Vergil is the same age as DMC4 Nero. We have to follow what the original Japanese Deadly Fortune novel said

As you can see below, that is 16/ 十六 (jū roku) and 17/ 十七 (jū nana) which debunks the 18-19. If Nero is 18-19, it should be written to 十八 (jū hachi) and 十九 (jū kyū)

Google Translate: "I see... but I remember something. You must have been around sixteen or seventeen years old... Seventeen years ago was the year I became Pope... and that year, I saw a man, here in Fortuna..."

So.. believing what Itsuno said before that "Nero is the same age as the twins in DMC3" when it was still 3142 Timeline is already retconned by the time they retconned the timeline for DMC5. If they didn't retconned we will stick to what Itsuno said, since the manga, novels, and anime are not canon in 3142 Timeline.

Another reminder that people ignoring its that Sanctus slowly poisoning Pope Solemnis for 2 years, and he met Vergil when he was already a pope

Remember what Morrison told to Dante what happened in Morris Island in Episode 8: Once Upon A Time in DMC Anime. It happened 20 years ago, means that Dante is 20 years younger than his age in DMC Anime

It's a popular idea that Dante and Vergil are only 8 years old. Where did the 8 years old comes from? well.. you can see in the calculation down below as said age is in-line to what Trish said in DMC1

Now, we have now the years but we don't have the exact year from DMC1 and below. We have to take into account that she said that Dante and Vergil were born in 1975. Its easy if we will just write it in descending order or if you want to challenge yourself calculate it

First Red Grave Incident happened 1983 Morris Island Incident - 1986 Vergil visiting Fortuna and Dante drifted in unnamed town - 1991 Sanctus communicating with Vergil - 1992 DMC1 novel, and DMC3 manga - 1993 DMC3 - 1994 and lastly Devil May Cry 1 happened in 2003

Note: During DMC3, Lady is a highschooler to cater to the Japanese audience, and she is slightly younger than the twins

For people who like to do Computation:

DMC5: 2016 (calendar), 1994 + 22 = 2016 BTN: 2016 - 1 = 2015 DMC4: 2015 - 5 = 2010 DMC Anime, DMC2 novel, DMC2: 2016 - 10 = 2006 DMC1: 1983 + 20 = 2003 DMC3: 2016 - 22 = 1994 (subtract to 5Nero's age) DMC1 novel, DMC3 manga: 1994 - 1 = 1993 Dante drifted 2 years ago: 1993 - 2 - 1991 Morris Island: 2006 - 20 = 1986 First Red Grave: 2003 - 20 = 1983, 1993 - 10 = 1983 Birth of Dante and Vergil: 1983 - 8 = 1975

To get first: DMC3, you have to know Nero's age He was 16 in DMC4 then add 6 to make 22 that is his canonical age in DMC5. Take 2016 and subtract it to 22 to get the year for DMC3 and also, Nero's birth

Morris Island: Take DMC Anime year and subtract it to 20

First Red Grave: Subtract 2003 to 20. From there.. You can add 20 in 1983 to get DMC1 year or subtract 1993 to 10

To get what year of birth for the twins just subtract it 1983 to 8 to get 1975

[thebrandwriter]

LG PRESENTS “LIVE BEYOND” WITH EXPANDED SECOND-GENERATION LG SIGNATURE LINEUP AT CES 2025

Showcasing the Evolution of the Company’s Ultra-Premium Brand, Advanced Lineup Delivers Enhanced User Experiences and Enriched, Connected Living

LG Electronics (LG) is unveiling its expanded second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup at CES 2025 in Las Vegas (January 7-10). Exhibited under the Live Beyond brand theme, the latest LG SIGNATURE range features exceptional products that integrate cutting-edge technology and sophisticated design to deliver enhanced usability, seamless connectivity and an unparalleled smart home experience.

The second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup builds on its signature minimalist aesthetic and exceptional performance with AI-driven features and intuitive functionality. This new wave of appliances comprises the LG SIGNATURE French Door Refrigerator with T-OLED door panel, LG SIGNATURE Smart InstaView™ Over-the-Range Microwave and Slide-in Double Oven Induction Range, LG SIGNATURE Dishwasher, LG SIGNATURE Washer & Dryer, and the LG SIGNATURE Washing Machine and Dryer pair.

Taste Beyond: Redefining the Kitchen

The 36-inch Smart InstaView French Door Refrigerator offers a differentiated kitchen experience with its remarkable and fully transparent T-OLED display embedded in the upper right door. This dual-purpose display serves as both a digital touch interface and a Dual InstaView panel, allowing users to conveniently manage the refrigerator and view its contents without opening the door. It can also display mesmerizing hologram-like visuals, blending the virtual with the real in a sublime fusion of art and high technology. For added ambiance, the refrigerator provides access to a curated music playlist* that lets users enjoy smooth, atmospheric beats whenever they are in the kitchen.

The refrigerator’s ThinQ™ Food management system and a built-in AI camera elevate convenience, automatically recognizing stored food items, suggesting recipes based on available ingredients and user preferences, and tracking inventory and expiration dates. These innovations streamline food management, menu planning and meal preparation, saving users time and making the kitchen a truly connected and dynamic space.

The LG SIGNATURE Over-the-Range Microwave and Slide-in Double Oven Induction Range enhance the culinary experience with their versatile cooking capabilities. The microwave is equipped with three built-in cameras for real-time cooking monitoring and time-lapse creation, capturing meals’ journeys from the oven to the table. The induction range, powered by Gourmet AI technology, identifies ingredients and provides helpful recipe suggestions.

The new LG SIGNATURE microwave not only excels in cooking and reheating but also redefines its category by delivering an immersive entertainment experience right in the kitchen. Featuring a 27-inch Full-HD touchscreen display with InstaView, built-in speakers and Wi-Fi connectivity, it enables users to enjoy a variety of entertainment content while they cook. The screen also provides access to the LG ThinQ Smart Home Dashboard, allowing users to control all LG AI appliances and compatible Matter and Thread devices in the home. In addition, when paired with the induction range, the microwave’s LCD display conveniently shows the cooking progress of dishes in the range, eliminating the need to bend down and check the oven manually.

The LG SIGNATURE Dishwasher is designed to fit perfectly with existing cabinetry, creating a clean, built-in look for a sleek, modern kitchen. Its innovative pop-out handle sits flush with the door when not in use and automatically “pops out” when a hand approaches. The new dishwasher is equipped with LG’s exclusive and highly-efficient QuadWash™ Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry™ technologies.

Live Beyond: Seamless Laundry Solutions

The second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup also offers exceptional advancements in laundry care. Featuring the LG SIGNATURE Washer & Dryer and 29-inch LG SIGNATURE Washing Machine and Dryer pair, the new laundry lineup leverages LG’s Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive™ (AI DD™) 2.0 for precise fabric care, and inverter heat pump technology for effective, low-temperature drying. Each models is equipped with a 7-inch LCD touchscreen for easy control.

The LG SIGNATURE zone at CES 2025 will feature an “ideal lifestyle” space highlighting the second-generation lineup in settings like a living room, laundry room and kitchen. In collaboration with premium Italian furniture brand Molteni&C, LG will pair its technologically-advanced products with Molteni&C’s exquisite designs. Visitors will also experience the LG ThinQ ON AI home hub in action, demonstrating the ease and efficiency of the AI Home lifestyle.

“The expanded second-gen LG SIGNATURE lineup seamlessly combines advanced technology with elegant, modern design to deliver a smarter, more efficient luxury home lifestyle,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of the LG Home Appliance Solution Company. “Through the flawless fusion of state-of-the-art smart home, AI and connectivity technologies, we will continue to provide transformative customer experiences that go beyond expectations.”

Visitors to CES 2025 from January 7-10 can explore the new additions to the second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup at LG’s booth (#15004, Las Vegas Convention Center).

[janicefer-2021]

The Latest Treadmill Models and Their Prices

The treadmill and exercise bike Sri Lanka market is continually evolving, with new models featuring advanced technology and improved designs. If you’re considering purchasing a treadmill, it’s essential to be aware of the latest models and their pricing. This guide provides an overview of some of the most recent treadmill models, highlighting their key features and price ranges.

1. NordicTrack Commercial 1750

- Features:

  - Motor: 3.75 CHP DurX Commercial Plus

  - Running Surface: 22 x 60 inches

  - Incline/Decline: -3% to 15%

  - Display: 14-inch HD touchscreen with iFit integration

  - Programs: Over 50 workout programs

  - Extras: Bluetooth speakers, adjustable cushioning, built-in fan

- Price: Approximately LKR 120,000 - 150,000

2. ProForm Pro 2000

- Features:

  - Motor: 3.5 CHP Mach Z Commercial Pro

  - Running Surface: 20 x 60 inches

  - Incline/Decline: -3% to 15%

  - Display: 7-inch high-definition touchscreen

  - Programs: 32 built-in workout programs

  - Extras: Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable incline and decline, ProShox cushioning

- Price: Approximately LKR 100,000 - 130,000

3. Sole Fitness F80

- Features:

  - Motor: 3.5 CHP

  - Running Surface: 22 x 60 inches

  - Incline: 0 to 15%

  - Display: 9-inch LCD

  - Programs: 10 built-in programs

  - Extras: Bluetooth speakers, cooling fan, foldable design

- Price: Approximately LKR 90,000 - 120,000

4. Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT

- Features:

  - Motor: 4.0 CHP

  - Running Surface: 22 x 60 inches

  - Incline: 0 to 15%

  - Display: 9.3-inch LED

  - Programs: 12 built-in programs

  - Extras: Bluetooth connectivity, Sprint 8 program, 3-zone cushioning

- Price: Approximately LKR 80,000 - 110,000

5. LifeSpan TR1200i

- Features:

  - Motor: 2.5 CHP

  - Running Surface: 20 x 56 inches

  - Incline: 0 to 15%

  - Display: 6.5-inch LCD

  - Programs: 21 built-in programs

  - Extras: USB port for device charging, heart rate monitoring, foldable design

- Price: Approximately LKR 60,000 - 85,000

6. XTERRA Fitness TRX4500

- Features:

  - Motor: 3.0 CHP

  - Running Surface: 20 x 60 inches

  - Incline: 0 to 15%

  - Display: 7.5-inch LCD

  - Programs: 30 workout programs

  - Extras: Bluetooth speakers, adjustable cushioning, foldable design

- Price: Approximately LKR 70,000 - 95,000

7. Reebok Jet 300

- Features:

  - Motor: 2.5 CHP

  - Running Surface: 20 x 55 inches

  - Incline: 0 to 12%

  - Display: 5.5-inch LED

  - Programs: 24 built-in programs

  - Extras: Built-in speakers, heart rate monitor, foldable design

- Price: Approximately LKR 50,000 - 70,000

8. Decathlon Domyos T900C

- Features:

  - Motor: 2.5 CHP

  - Running Surface: 20 x 55 inches

  - Incline: 0 to 12%

  - Display: 7-inch LCD

  - Programs: 12 built-in programs

  - Extras: USB port, heart rate monitor, foldable design

- Price: Approximately LKR 40,000 - 60,000

Key Considerations

- Motor Power: A more powerful motor supports higher speeds and more intense workouts. Look for at least 2.5 CHP for reliable performance.

- Running Surface: A larger surface area is important for comfort, especially for running. Choose a deck size that suits your stride length.

- Incline and Decline: Adjustable incline adds variety to workouts and targets different muscle groups.

- Display and Connectivity: A high-resolution display with interactive features and connectivity options enhances the workout experience.

- Foldability: If space is a concern, a foldable treadmill can save space when not in use.

Where to Buy

- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Flipkart, and local e-commerce sites often offer competitive prices and customer reviews.

- Local Fitness Stores: Visit local stores to test treadmills and take advantage of in-store promotions and warranties.

- Second-Hand Market: Check platforms like Facebook Marketplace or OLX for used treadmills at lower prices, but ensure to check the condition and functionality. The latest treadmill models offer a range of features designed to enhance your fitness experience. By understanding the features and prices of different models, you can choose a treadmill that fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for high-tech options or a basic, functional machine or a Weight lifting bench in Sri Lanka to go along with it, there’s a treadmill available to meet your fitness goals.

[palatromarket]

Top Radon Gas Detectors for Ensuring Home Safety

Understanding the Importance of Radon Gas Detection

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that originates from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can lead to lung cancer, making it the second leading cause of this disease after smoking. This underscores the critical importance of having reliable radon gas detectors in homes, especially in areas known for high radon levels.

Key Features to Look for in Radon Gas Detectors

When selecting a radon gas detector, several features ensure accuracy and reliability. These include:

Sensitivity and Accuracy: The detector should have high sensitivity to detect even low levels of radon and provide accurate readings.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term Detection: Long-term detectors offer more accurate average radon levels over time, while short-term detectors are useful for quick assessments.

Ease of Use: User-friendly interfaces and simple setup processes are essential.

Digital Display: Real-time display of radon levels allows for immediate understanding of radon concentration.

Data Logging and Reporting: Advanced models offer data logging and reporting features for comprehensive radon level tracking.

Top Radon Gas Detectors on the Market

1. Airthings Wave Plus

Airthings Wave Plus is a smart radon detector that offers not only radon detection but also measures other indoor air quality parameters like CO2, humidity, and temperature. This makes it a comprehensive device for monitoring overall indoor air quality.

Key Features:

Bluetooth Connectivity: Easily syncs with your smartphone for real-time data.

Six Sensors in One: Monitors radon, CO2, humidity, temperature, air pressure, and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).

Visual and Audible Alerts: Wave your hand in front of the device for a color-coded visual indication of air quality.

2. Corentium Home by Airthings

The Corentium Home Radon Detector is a portable, battery-operated device that provides reliable radon level readings.

Key Features:

Portable and Battery Operated: Ideal for checking radon levels in multiple locations within a home.

LCD Display: Shows short-term and long-term average radon levels.

Long Battery Life: Operates on three AAA batteries for up to two years.

3. SafetySiren Pro4 Series

The SafetySiren Pro4 is a plug-in radon gas detector known for its accuracy and ease of use.

Key Features:

Continuous Monitoring: Provides real-time radon level readings.

Audible Alarm: Alerts you when radon levels exceed safe thresholds.

Digital Display: Easy-to-read digital display shows current radon levels.

4. RadonEye RD200

The RadonEye RD200 offers high sensitivity and fast response times, making it one of the most accurate consumer radon detectors available.

Key Features:

Bluetooth Enabled: Connects to your smartphone for detailed data analysis.

Fast Response: Provides initial radon readings within an hour.

High Sensitivity: Offers 20 times the sensitivity of standard radon detectors.

5. First Alert RD1

The First Alert RD1 is a simple and affordable short-term radon test kit that provides a snapshot of radon levels in your home.

Key Features:

Simple Test Kit: Easy to use and interpret results.

Lab Analysis Included: Comes with pre-paid postage and lab analysis fees.

Short-Term Testing: Ideal for initial radon assessments.

How to Use and Interpret Radon Gas Detectors

Using radon gas detectors correctly is crucial for obtaining accurate readings. Here are the general steps:

Placement: Place the detector in the lowest lived-in level of the home, avoiding kitchens, bathrooms, and high humidity areas.

Testing Duration: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended testing duration—typically, long-term tests are preferred for more accurate readings.

Interpreting Results: Compare the radon levels to the EPA's action level of 4 pCi/L. If levels are above this, consider mitigation steps.

Steps to Take if Radon Levels Are High

If your radon detector indicates high levels of radon, immediate action is necessary to reduce exposure. Here are steps to take:

Seal Cracks and Openings: Seal cracks in floors and walls with appropriate materials.

Improve Ventilation: Increase airflow in the house by opening windows and using fans.

Install a Radon Mitigation System: A professional can install a system that reduces radon levels by venting the gas from beneath the house to the outside.

Benefits of Regular Radon Monitoring

Regular monitoring of radon levels in your home is essential for maintaining a safe living environment. Benefits include:

Early Detection: Identifying rising radon levels before they become hazardous.

Peace of Mind: Ensuring that your home remains a safe place for you and your family.

Health Protection: Reducing the risk of lung cancer associated with radon exposure.

Conclusion

Investing in a reliable radon gas detector is a crucial step in protecting your home and health. By choosing a detector that meets your needs and regularly monitoring radon levels, you can ensure a safe living environment. Always follow up on high readings with appropriate mitigation measures to reduce radon exposure effectively. visit our shop to see more.

[sanajames]

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Watches for Women

A wristwatch is more than just a tool for telling time; it’s a statement of style, personality, and elegance. Watches for women come in a myriad of designs, from classic and minimalist to bold and embellished. At Bash, we offer an extensive collection of watches that cater to diverse tastes and needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of watches, how to choose the perfect one for you, and tips on styling your watch to complement your outfit.

Types of Watches

Understanding the different types of watches can help you make an informed choice. Here are some popular styles to consider:

Analog Watches: Analog watches feature a traditional clock face with hour and minute hands, often accompanied by a second hand. These watches exude classic elegance and are perfect for both casual and formal settings.

Digital Watches: Digital watches display the time in numerical format on an LED or LCD screen. They are practical and easy to read, making them ideal for active women who need functionality over formality.

Smartwatches: Combining technology with style, smartwatches offer a range of features such as fitness tracking, notifications, and apps. These watches are perfect for tech-savvy women who want to stay connected and active.

Dress Watches: Dress watches are designed to be worn with formal attire. They are typically sleek, slim, and often feature luxurious materials such as gold or silver. These watches are perfect for special occasions and evening events.

Sport Watches: Sport watches are durable and often water-resistant, designed to withstand physical activity. They usually feature additional functionalities like timers, stopwatches, and heart rate monitors, making them ideal for fitness enthusiasts.

Choosing the Right Watch

Selecting the perfect watch involves considering several factors. Here are some tips to help you find the right watches for women:

Style: Consider your personal style and how the watch will fit into your wardrobe. If you prefer a classic look, opt for an analog or dress watch. For a modern, tech-savvy style, a smartwatch may be the best choice.

Occasion: Think about where and when you’ll be wearing the watch. A dress watch is perfect for formal events, while a sport watch is better suited for workouts and outdoor activities. For everyday wear, a versatile analog watch can be a great choice.

Material: The material of the watch affects both its appearance and durability. Stainless steel and leather straps offer a timeless look, while rubber or silicone straps are more practical for sports and casual wear.

Size: Ensure the watch size is proportionate to your wrist. Watches with large faces can make a bold statement, while smaller faces are more understated and delicate. Try on different sizes to see what feels most comfortable and looks best on you.

Features: Consider the features you need. If you want a watch with basic time-telling functionality, an analog or digital watch will suffice. For additional features like fitness tracking or smartphone connectivity, opt for a smartwatch.

Styling Tips for Watches

Watches are versatile accessories that can enhance any outfit. Here are some tips on how to style your watch:

Layering: Pair your watch with bracelets or bangles for a stylish layered look. Mix and match different textures and materials to create a unique and personalized style.

Match Metals: Coordinate the metal of your watch with other jewelry you’re wearing. For instance, if you’re wearing gold earrings, opt for a watch with gold elements to create a cohesive look.

Consider the Occasion: Match your watch to the occasion. A simple leather-strap watch works well for casual settings, while a diamond-studded dress watch is perfect for formal events.

Color Coordination: Choose a watch that complements the colors in your outfit. Neutral colors like black, white, and silver are versatile and can be paired with almost anything, while a colorful watch can add a fun pop to your look.

Why Choose Bash

At Bash, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of high-quality watches for women. Our collection includes everything from classic analog designs to cutting-edge smartwatches, ensuring you find the perfect timepiece for any occasion. Explore our watches for women to discover your next essential accessory.

In conclusion, finding the perfect watch involves considering style, occasion, material, size, and features. By understanding these factors and experimenting with different looks, you can find a watch that not only tells time but also enhances your personal style. Visit Bash to explore our latest collection and elevate your wrist game with a stylish and functional watch.

[topteneverworld]

The 12 Best Instant Read Thermometers, Tested by Experts

Introduction — Best Instant Read Thermometers

Cooking has evolved into an art form, where precision is paramount to crafting mouthwatering dishes. Among the array of essential kitchen tools, the instant-read thermometer stands as an indispensable ally for both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike. This sleek and compact gadget ensures that no culinary masterpiece falls victim to the guesswork of internal temperatures. In this article, we present the best instant-read thermometers that combine accuracy, speed, versatility, and user-friendliness, elevating your culinary prowess to new heights.

Continue Reading — Best Instant Read Thermometers Review

Thermapen Mk4

Widely regarded as the gold standard of instant-read thermometers, the Thermapen Mk4 reigns supreme with its unparalleled accuracy and blazing-fast response time. Its ultra-sensitive thermocouple sensor provides readings within 2-3 seconds, virtually eliminating any margin of error. The swiveling backlit display ensures easy reading from any angle, and the auto-rotating feature adjusts the orientation accordingly. With a wide temperature range, waterproof construction, and ergonomic design, the Thermapen Mk4 is a culinary marvel.

>> Buy Now Best Instant Read Thermometers <<

Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo

The Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo is a budget-friendly powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on performance. Boasting a speedy 2-3 seconds response time, it is equipped with a foldable probe for compact storage and portability. Its impressive accuracy ensures precision in every cooking endeavor. The Javelin Pro Duo also features a magnetic back and an intelligent stabilization alert to notify you when the temperature reading has settled.

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ThermoWorks ThermoPop

If you seek affordability without compromising on quality, the ThermoWorks ThermoPop has you covered. This budget-friendly option comes with a rotating display, making it perfect for both left and right-handed users. Its slender probe folds into the body when not in use, making storage hassle-free. Although slightly slower than its high-end counterparts, the ThermoPop still delivers swift and precise readings within 3-4 seconds.

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MEATER+

Revolutionizing the instant-read thermometer game, the MEATER+ stands as a wireless and smart cooking solution. With no cords to tangle, this innovative device utilizes Bluetooth connectivity to communicate with your smartphone or tablet, enabling you to monitor cooking progress remotely. The MEATER+ also boasts an impressive range and dual sensors, providing both internal and ambient temperature readings. Its accompanying app offers various cooking presets and alerts, guiding you to perfection.

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Weber iGrill Mini

The Weber iGrill Mini is not only a reliable instant-read thermometer but also a smart cooking companion. Designed for grilling enthusiasts, this compact device connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to monitor the temperature remotely. With the Weber iGrill app, you can set custom temperature alerts and receive notifications when your food is perfectly cooked. It has a slightly slower response time compared to other instant-read thermometers (about five seconds), but the added convenience of remote monitoring makes up for it.

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Habor Digital Meat Thermometer

Perfect for grill masters and BBQ enthusiasts, the Habor Digital Meat Thermometer comes equipped with a longer, heat-resistant probe for measuring deeper temperatures. Its LCD display boasts a backlight for easy reading in low-light conditions. The Habor thermometer also includes a handy temperature chart and a hold function, allowing you to lock the reading for later reference.

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Conclusion

In the world of culinary artistry, precision is the key to elevating flavors to their utmost potential. The best instant-read thermometers make this precision readily accessible to both seasoned chefs and aspiring home cooks. From the lightning-fast Thermapen Mk4 to the innovative wireless capabilities of the MEATER+, each thermometer on this list offers a unique set of features to suit various needs and budgets.

Read Full Review Click Here>>

[guardian-rocket]

The human spider's suggestion about tracking his team down was exactly what was on Rocket's mind as well, and yet, just hearing the suggestion made him realize how extremely easy this would be considering he had slipped trackers into all his teammate's food.

The mission was small change to making sure his team was safe. He couldn't use his communicator to reach out to them because if they were captive the auditory feed could make it very dangerous and give away their locale. Rocket was too much of a strategist to not see that risk.

"Actually, now would be a good time to verify we're in the right dimension, I don't think my tracking equipment would work if we weren't," he said in a whisper.

He put a finger to his mouth as he heard them getting quicker, and he pulled something out of his pouched belt that looked like an old fishing LCD game from the late 90s in shape, it hand a handle and a screen and some tactical buttons at the bottom. He used some arrow controls to scroll through some menus selecting "QUILL" from a list of names and items he had in his tracker database. The screen soon turned into a navigational system with an arrow pointing in the direction of the target the tracker was set up for.

"Bingo," he whispered, as he climbed up a pipe against the wall, holding the tracking monitor in his mouth, as he hung close to Noir, he motioned a 'hush' motion by placing a finger to his lip after moving the device out of his mouth. He hung on the pipe, clipping the tracker monitor to his jacket, silently hopping ontop of one of the tops of the tanks in the room, the creature sound asleep below him.

They were hidden for now as there seemed to be two Tivan attendants walk into the room they were in. Both women were Krylorian, with bright fuchsia skin and fiery eyes, long hair done up intricately, wearing short white maxi dresses and high heeled pumps.

They started talking amongst themselves, their voices casual like two co-workers at the office.

"So where is the shipment going to?"

"Game World."

"Oh, he's talking with his brother again?"

"No, he's not, he's having us move them by a proxy, and don't let him catch you calling The Grandmaster his brother, he gets very angry when he is referred to as such."

"Really? I didn't know their relationship was that bad. How many fighters were there? I'm going to need to know how my Cryo tubes to bring out for the transportations."

"Four."

"That seems a little low, wasn't the team bigger than that? I heard The Grandmaster can be very temperamental about things like that"

"We have all primary members of the Guardians, we're just missing the possum."

"Oh, that shouldn't be a problem then. The possum wouldn't last five nano seconds in the arenas."

"I don't think the bug girl will either, if you ask me!"

Both assistants started laughing as they left the room.

Rocket said nothing, but his tail might have given signal to his emotional state, as the hair had frizzed out like a pipe cleaner and was swishing back and forth in an irate fashion.

Whirpod. Bio-signature. Biome. Temple. End-Times Prophecies. Malarkey.

Some of what Rocket said he knew, some not so much. But Noir understood enough to take good guesses. Magical nature saving seed artifact, special temple tasked with keeping it safe. Asshole decides to see dollar signs or rarity over it’s real value. And takes it for himself.

Yeah. He’d seen similar stories like that. Been stuck in one or two before. Again, the details changed but the basics were the same everywhere.

Funny how that worked.

Enhanced hearing picks up the sounds of shoes just as Rocket does, and the detective wastes no time in following right behind the racoon. Spider stickiness making it easy to just go up the wall towards the top of the room.

“I have a feeling we’ll have to track your team down as well as the seed this Collector guy took- if they aren’t in the same place already.��“I have a feeling we’ll have to track your team down as well as the seed this Collector guy took- if they aren’t in the same place already.”

Spider-Man mutters quietly, moving right next to Rocket within the upper shadows of the room.

[doshmanziari]

Most English-speaking people today who are aware of videogame developer T&E Soft only know of them through two titles: the first Hydlide (specifically the, by 1987, dated/inferior NES re-release) and Virtual Hydlide. Both of these have acquired a pretty undue notoriety, mostly encouraged by the exaggerations of e-personalities intent on making everything out to be either AWESOME or LMAO TERRIBLE, since that’s what gets the most attention. It’s better to see Hydlide in its PC-6001/PC-88 context as an innovator of the action-adventure-RPG genre, and the influence for the first two Ys games’ format (also little-known: Ys III: Wanderers from Ys was modeled on the design of Tritorn 2, a game by developer Sein/Xain/Zain Soft; it even copied some of the settings!). Understood as such -- compare the PC releases of Hydlide to, e.g., the original Dragon Slayer, also released for the PC-88 in 1984 --, we can also begin to understand its popularity as a consequence of something more than millions of Japanese citizens being deprived and deluded. Virtual Hydlide is noteworthy too as a strange and perhaps unique attempt at crafting a lightly randomized, score- and time-based 3D arcade game for a home console using the overworld + dungeon crawler format. Its most significant downside is a miserable framerate. I get why this would put people off from playing it, especially since it’s always conflicted with the design’s speedrun-like emphases. But if this were the worst thing you could knock a game for, the medium would be specially positioned among all others for a minimum of faults (hint: it isn’t).

With that preamble out of the way, I’d like to bring to unaware readers’ attention Rune Worth 2 and 3, released for the PC-98 in 1991. As usual, if your only resources on the English-speaking Internet for videogames are Wikipedia and MobyGames, you would probably never know about either of these (Wikipedia cites the first Rune Worth (1989) for the MSX, but says nothing of the sequels; MobyGames does not even cite the former). The Rune Worth series was, by all appearances, T&E Soft’s successor to Hydlide, and while it is formally organized as a trilogy, the three-months-gap between the second and third installment’s release, their discounted price, and the way in which 3 picks up right where 2 leaves off (to the extent of being able to transfer your character data from one to the other), means that, really, there are two full entries. Much of this information was laid out on a dedicated stream for both these games by Macaw45, who has dedicated years to researching, cataloguing, and exposing people to lesser-known videogames. If you can’t read Japanese, or just don’t want to play the games yourself, the embedded video would be your best bet for seeing them in action.

There are many things to say about Rune Worth 2/3 -- the dramatic introductory sequence preceding the main menu, the luxuriant sprawl of its public spaces (one can, for example, go out to the first castle’s rooftop, partitioned into a little pseudo maze, despite no requirement for doing so), its equal emphasis on setting, story, and action -- but since I’ve elected to make this into an image-based post, I want to illustrate how amazing these games look. Even from a distance, many PC-98 games have a distinct and highly abstract composure; and, looking at them up close, where the unlikeliness of certain chromatic and textural decisions make themselves known, it’s a wonder over and over again how representation emerges from what I described in a post about Super Hydlide as “an ornate and time-worn carpet.” The resemblance to a tapestry is especially obvious with Rune Worth 3 and its faded floral border depicting a grape vine. The overall visual splendor of these mosaics on a PC-98 monitor would, of course, be all the subtler and greater.

Over time, a handful of early- to mid-90s Japanese PC videogames have gotten more exposure in the West as the consumption of anime and nostalgic sentiment have grown hand-in-hand (not infrequently to pathologically anti-social effect). The bulk of these have tended to be of the visual novel/eroge type. YU-NO: A Girl Who Chants Love at the Bound of this World, released in 1996 for the PC-98, is a particularly popular example, in part because of its soundtrack by Ryu Umemoto. For me, the in-game artwork for these titles can be technically commendable, but is otherwise not very exciting. When I look at Rune Worth 2 or 3, it sometimes reminds me of looking at artist Kathleen Ryan’s beady sculptures of rotting fruit and marveling at the surprising vibrancy and coloristic range within putrefaction: the intersection of the beautiful and ugly, and its fructifying of the grotesque. This extends to a number of PC-88 titles too, like Sorcerian (Falcom, 1987) and DIOS (Zain Soft, 1989). In some cases, there is a remarkable convergence of visual grit/granularity and fidelity, maybe exemplified best of all by the PC-98 release of Xak III: The Eternal Recurrence (MicroCabin, 1993). But even there I find myself missing the marvelous polychromaticism of these two Rune Worth games. The intention for, say, Super Nintendo games to be played and seen on CRT TVs has never been an impediment to contemporary indie developers mimicking their look for modern LCD monitors. Even if it feels unlikely, then, I wonder if we will one day see a small revival of that fibrous, loom-woven PC-88/PC-98 look.

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

You can support my writing, music, and artwork on Patreon.

[tap-tap-tap-im-in]

The above is a semi interactive poem (asks you to click a button a handful of times).

Wrapped it in an retro LCD/monitor aesthetic, including some one bit dithered art, and full screen blanks

Poem is animated using a rewrite of a poetry markup/animation engine I wrote 8ish years ago called Nightingale.

The url is my website where new and old poetry is living since the fate of everything is questionable. Because it's interactive, I can't repost it here but here's a screenshot of the second section

Meaning - a javascript poem.

[idealnreal]

Maruki palace overanalysis part III

Thanks to @appleyjuiceboy​ for helping with the insanity, and @goalexstark for requesting. Part I, Part II. Really long post ahead. Lots of feels.

Back into the palace monitoring room, the cables are gone. From this point on, we will encounter six journal pages, four memory rooms, and three will seeds. According to Morgana, Maruki likely never intended the memories to be seen. Will seeds are mini treasures -- aka sources of distortion. While the journal pages, like all diaries, are meant to be private. We have come to the depths of his psyche-- perhaps manifesting beliefs that he is not fully conscious of, or tries to keep hidden from others. And in this second-third of the palace (starting from the cables to the garden puzzle) we also see his systematic view of the world in full force. This will be a long post.

So starting with this first part, we come to a dimly lit corridor with similarly dimly lit rooms full of filing cabinets and mini monitoring rooms with circular stations. In one of the filing cabinet rooms, we find the first journal entry. Before we get into the text, it’s interesting to note that the journals are signified by a mess of papers strewn about, with the metaverse logo sorta watermarked over it. We will see the same sort of mess again in the memory rooms. For someone who is quite calm, organised and systematic, these messes always signal something important or emotional for him. One can imagine Maruki, flustered and upset, searching for something, throwing the papers around.

The first journal entry is found sticking out of some filing drawer. The text is as follows:

“ Feb. 2. Tomorrow is Rumi’s birthday. I’ll be meeting her parents … My hands have been shaking an awful lot lately. Will they let their daughter marry a low-level researcher like me? Now I’m getting even more anxious… When I told Rumi how nervous I’m getting, she just laughed and said I think too much. She may not have understood my problem, but I do so love her laugh. I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep with my nerves like this, but I need to lie down anyway. I’ve been getting the worst headaches lately… I might be pushing myself too hard for this thesis. I just really want to be in top form tomorrow. I know this diary was originally just for research notes, but now I hope I can look back at it with Rumi someday and feel nostalgic.”

When Maruki set the February 3rd deadline, he said that this was the day “ I lost everything that mattered to me,”. Rumi and her parents were attacked on the night of her birthday, and on the night they announced their engagement to her parents. The night that was supposed to be happy and full of hope for the future became the worst possible night of his life.

Maruki seems to suffer from some anxiety -- but of course any person would have nerves before announcing an engagement. He’s worried that he isn’t good enough for Rumi or her parents. That they wouldn’t accept him as a son-in-law, or as part of the family because of his occupation and standing.

It also seems that even at this point, he has started to awaken to his persona, with the headaches and shaking hands. This is interesting because within this game’s logic the person needs to have at least some interaction with the Metaverse and have a will of rebellion to awaken to their persona -- or to even start awakening to it. He was already working on cognitive pscience at this point, and he was aware of the potential benefits of it’s use -- as a form of psychiatric therapy. He was already rejecting the status quo of life and of his field -- there was another way, a more effective way, to heal people. And it’s also possible that this note is hinting that he has had some fleeting interaction with the Metaverse. Afterall, we see that people who first enter the Metaverse experience headaches. But the game doesn’t give any more hints on this.  

The second journal note is also within the same area, near what looks to be some kind of video tape archive. The note reads:

“ Apr. 9. I just can’t believe what’s happened. I’ll never see Rumi’s parents again… I don’t even know if Rumi will ever come back to me. Her heart’s been completely closed off ever since that day. Why did this happen? What did Rumi do to deserve this? Do we really have to go on suffering these consequences? My headaches are getting worse -- I’m even starting to hear things. Am I having some kind of breakdown? I can’t lose it … I have to do something to help Rumi.”

This entry is dated two months after the incident. We don’t see any entry in between, or any hint or any other expansion into what really happened during the incident. As far as we are told by Maruki himself is that it was a burglary that killed two people and maimed a third. Which to me, is highly suspicious. Burglars would not kill, not even when they are desperate. And it’s even more unlikely in Japan with one of the world’s lowest murder rates.

We know for a fact that Maruki tends to lie or wave away details when it comes to his own past and own feelings. Like when Ryuji asked him if highschool is when he first found romance, and when Maruki said that he and Rumi just broke up because he was ‘spineless’. I suspect there is a lot more about this incident that Maruki isn’t admitting to us-- but neither the palace nor the game ever explains it. (I have a theory, but that’s for another day).

If there is more to it than a burglary, it’s very likely that he’s suppressed it so much and hid it away somewhere that we never get to access. It’s also telling that all references to the incident are all in relation to Rumi’s pain and how it was she who suffered that night. He never even admits that he too lost something that night, and is still suffering from the trauma.

So the two months between the entries as well as the opening two lines, also signal that he was indeed traumatised by it. It’s not hard to imagine that in those two months, he couldn’t process what happened, and even by April, he still questions accepting reality. He also thinks that he’s having a breakdown -- and one doesn’t need to be a psychiatrist to know that when one starts having auditory hallucinations, it means something is really wrong in the brain department. Of course, we can infer that these hallucinations are Azathoth trying to manifest, but as far as Maruki knew, he was indeed losing it. But he forces himself to pull it together, to suppress this pain and to hide his symptoms, for Rumi -- and for his research.

It is likely that he avoided getting help or admitting that he was suffering from migraines and hallucinations. The chances of his research being funded, accepted, and published, all hinges on his reputation as a researcher. And unfortunately, as much as Japan has come a long way -- it is still detrimental to any professional to be diagnosed with a mental disorder. We also know that at this point he was already looking for funders and backers for his research -- reputation becomes everything.

We come to a room that looks like a server room, and this is where his first will seed is. The server room is a mess of tendrils and cables -- while the door itself is barred by a holographic lock, and some branch-like tendrils. The ‘flower’ looking textures that surround the door are holograms again of what looks like circuits.

Voice tracks will usually play upon opening a will seed door, which is usually the palace ruler reinforcing their distortion, and Maruki’s voice track is one of the more audible ones. The tracks will play randomly for each door, so there’s no order to things. Thanks to Jester for making out what they say:

“R-Rumi… I-I…”

“No matter what I need to do… I’ll reach my goal.”

“What can I do to make you understand?”

“What’s wrong with an alternate reality if everyone is happy?”

“I’m so close… just a little further…!”

“Just a little more… and everyone will be happy…”

“Why… why can’t we come to an agreement…?”

The man is tired, and he’s pushing himself to keep going. Some of the tracks are also questions, probably in response to Joker and the Phantom Thieves, trying to reason with them.

Moving on from this, we find more monitoring rooms, with lots of screens, cables, and glass floors that look down into what looks to be server rooms. The rooms are typically dark, illuminated only by the neon teal lights and screens.

We also then come across the first locked gate, with an authentication question. The fact that these gates require the intruder to at the very least know some parts of his past -- signify that he does want people to understand him and where he’s coming from, as uncomfortable as it is. This is especially important given how closed off he was about his past prior to this-- represented by the fact that the only way you can get these answers is watching memory tapes that, according to Morgana, are likely memories he has tried to suppress. Speaking of which…

Before we go into the memory itself, I want to note the design of these rooms. As highlighted before, messes like strewn paper, disorganised shelves, represent something emotional or upsetting for him. And no better is that demonstrated than in these memory rooms. Papers are strewn, filing boxes and books are stacked haphazardly, filing baskets and stools lay toppled. There is no clear organisation or consistency in these rooms -- and it looks as if someone had come in, thrown everything around, as if searching.

These rooms look very old-school research rooms and are lit only by an old CRTV -- in direct contrast to the high-tech aesthetic the rest of the palace has. And most of all these rooms look abandoned and forgotten. These rooms hint at the core of his self -- before he became obsessed with healing the world, the self that was confused and lost after the Incident.

It’s also interesting to note the fact that his memories play on the very small CRTV -- while in comparison earlier Sumire’s memories played on a wide screen LCD TV. He puts even more distance with his own (grainy) memories than the memories of someone else.

Okay, now we get to the first memory tape.

It starts off in Rumi’s hospital room. And from a later journal entry, we know that this is at least sometime in August, which means its been six months since the Incident, and four months since Takuto began to write in his journal again. Rumi is in a catatonic state, and it seems that she is somewhat responsive -- even if she can’t speak or move much.

Takuto is trying to cheer her up by suggesting that he bring her snacks and flowers. His tone is cheerful and gentle, knowing that Rumi can understand him -- but is simply unable to respond or speak. He knows she’s traumatised, so much to a point that she’s too scared to move. He’s trying to show her that it’s safe, and most importantly, that he’s there for her. Being an empath, loving her as much as he does -- this would’ve been incredibly painful for him. But for her sake, he tries to smile.

He then goes into telling her what’s been going on in his life, and explaining his research and how he wants to use it. From this, we know at least one of the first uses he envisioned for cognitive pscience was to stop crime before it’s committed, by changing distorted cognitions that lead people to doing bad things. He wants to make sure what happened to Rumi would never happen to anyone else. This is perhaps going one step further than what the PT are doing. Yes they’re both stopping criminals, but in Takuto’s conception -- it’s stopping crimes before there are any victims, rather than waiting for victims to be created.

He also tells her that there are some potential investors into his research, and that theres a chance that research into cognitive pscience will be properly funded. He’s excited for it because it is the first step to bringing cognitive pscience into real practical use. This also hints that at least for the past few months, he’s been working on his research again -- and trying to hide his symptoms (re: hallucinations, migraines) because he’s actively looking for funders.

He tells her that the ‘culprit’ has been caught and that she doesn’t need to worry anymore. He then mentions ‘Family’, and Rumi responds to that, repeating ‘Family’, then ‘Takuto’. As far as we can tell, these together seem to be her triggers -- and she’s sent into a PTSD episode. She yells for her parents to be given back, and cries out for them. Takuto tries to calm her down, but is unable to until the nurses arrive and (probably) sedate her.

This is another hint that the Incident was more than a simple burglary -- and somehow Takuto was more involved in the Incident than simply a bystander who couldn’t protect her when the burglar ‘was trying to escape’. And it’s also suggested that during this Incident, Rumi’s parents were being held -- perhaps as hostages?

I have a theory that the Incident was really more of an attempted assassination of Takuto -- very likely by Shido (who we know does know of Takuto’s research). While we don’t know the exact years the Incident took place -- from the journal notes, we can safely say its AT LEAST two years prior to the start of the game. I would go further to say that this was before Wakaba’s death or even Goro’s awakening, because it seems that Shido doesn’t yet have the power to cause mental shutdowns. And because of that, he’s would try the old fashioned way to shut Takuto’s research down.

However, instead of killing Takuto, Rumi and her parents suffered. It’s also interesting to note --IF this theory is true -- why Takuto was left alive. But thats pure hc territory which i’ll leave for another time.

Also another hint to support this is basically other hints that Takuto -- like Sumire-- suffers from survivor’s guilt. He even mentions it when speaking to Joker and Goro in the beginning of the palace. It’s also hinted by the fact that Takuto has managed to change Sumire’s cognition so drastically that even he was surprised. This was because of how she spoke, and how she suffered from intense survivor’s guilt. But i’ll get into this more when we get to the third memory tape.

The doctor explains to Takuto that she was triggered, and Takuto knew that it was his own words that triggered her. He apologised for it -- and muses that she needs to be ‘set free from that horrible tragedy’. It’s at this point that his migraines return and he hears a voice. Then, Rumi starts to speak, “Takuto … Please… Stop this. I … Want to… forget,”

Rumi made her wish, and Takuto began to understand how exactly cognitive pscience can make that possible. And again, he hears the voice, clearer this time -- enough for him to understand and respond to it. In that moment, desperate to put an end to Rumi’s pain, to fulfil her wish -- he agrees to Azathoth (perhaps forming a contract and semi-awakening to Azathoth). In the Japanese audio version, he actually screams this part. Oof.

In an instant, her cognition is changed and she wakes up as a different Rumi -- a Rumi who’s parents had died when she was young, who lived with her grandparents, and therefore, a Rumi who has never met or grown up with Takuto. She’s forgotten everything that caused her pain before.

Takuto, shocked at this, begins to fumble around for a cover story -- trying to explain to this new Rumi why he was in her room and why he knew her name. Despite the dawning realisation that she has truly forgotten him, he tries to be cheerful and plays it off when she shows concern for him. He would do anything to make her happy, and anything to preserve her happiness, even if it is horribly painful for him.

The interaction ends when Rumi asks why he won’t be visiting again and “what about your girlfriend?”, and he replies by “She … passed away,” In this moment, Rumi’s portrait disappears from the text box -- signifying a stark break in Takuto’s perception of her. The Rumi he knew and loved really has passed away, and this -- he convinces himself-- is another Rumi. A Rumi that he must not see again.

He stands to leave, telling her that he hopes she feels better soon and “ I know the people who care about you wish the same”.

So for him, just as his life was starting to get back together after the literal worst night ever -- just as his research was starting to get funders -- he loses his fiance and long time love. This follows the same pattern as before, where the night of the incident was supposed to be a happy night where their engagement is announced, followed by a horrible attack and murder (possible assassination attempt on his life too). But that’s allright, hes NOT in pain!!! and suspicious of any good thing that comes his way!! because now, she can be happy. And that was more important than his own happiness!!! 

Oof. Okay this got long and heavy. Gonna end this here ! Stay tuned for part 4.

[psychemeanscure]

PART 20 {After two consecutive parts with full Jang Taeyoung, yeah I do need a Sung Eunyoung indeed. Enjoy y’all}

That was the last thing she can remember before she went blackout. Approached by a couple of men after a newly ended meeting. She tried. Tossing her leader bag sling from own shoulder, running after their chase over her, pulling out the only pepper spray weapon she had. Yet, none of that paid way other than her being smelled by a chloroform in handkerchief, then history happened. They successfully taken her.

Regaining consciousness, she learned that her head was actually cloth with garbage bag. Peeking a possible person, she can see but failed as the bag was pure black for her to take chances. Hands tied tightly from behind, both ankles wrapped by metal ropes. Much the duct tape plastered on her lips isn’t helping, useless screaming as only muffled sound is heard. She gave up, as only heavy breaths left.

Until someone finally take it off the bag on her. Meeting the eyes of the person she expected it to be. ‘Veeros Alcaziar.’ Her raging mention in mind. It innocently looks at her surprised as if no idea as well. “It was you?” its disbelieving words even.

‘Cut the act, old hag’ a retort from her mind once again. She may can’t blurt it out yet her blazing glare says it so. “I never thought you’ll be the co-partner of that industrial company director who wasted my money. You see señorita, I invested a sum from that Xi industry knowing that it could profit my business carefully. They promised, I trusted them, and they just flee. I had no choice but to look for the other proprietor hoping to bring back mine. If only I knew you were the other person, I could have just settle to you properly. I’m sorry.”      

Sensing another of her muffling sound, the latter takes away the duct tape without care for she need to whimper in no time. “F*ck you.” Her convicting reply as the old Alcaziar only awed in snigger, revealing its true colors. Sighing as if disappointed on its own action. “Is my acting really that bad to notice easily?” it even snaps his own forehead as if remembering where he slips a word. “Ah! Right. Flee. Tsk, how can I say that when you just met him with your last meeting? What a bad actor I am.”

“Shut the crap out, Señor Alcaziar.”

Her cold stone response, as its evil grimace slowly showed up. “So you knew.” Does, the retaliating laugh resonate the illuminating room. The only hanged fluorescent bulb swaying from the ceiling makes it more irritating. “I thought I have to work too much threat with you but damn my dear Amilia--- oh scratch that, my little Sung Eunyoung-ie… You wholeheartedly offer yourself instead. So proud of you. So like your mother, just as wise as her.”

And it stilled her. For she admits she starts to get nervous by his presence. Given the mere mention of her mother, she knew a glimpse of Pandora’s box will reopen. “W-what do you mean?” her urging eccentricity. Responded by the clicking of its shoes, arms crossed with ascendency, fully welcoming her awaiting answer. “Hm. Alright, let us put it this way.”  Removing its usual cowboy hat he’s wearing by a near table, lighting up own tobacco while pulling out something on its shirt pocket, she acknowledged it. Strands of hair tailed neatly as she can only think of one person. ‘Eomma.’

She never expected the extent of obsession the geezer has, until today. Possessing a part from a deceased is too much considering years had passed already. Inhaling like he has been familiar for such a long time, he reminisces. “God, your mom’s smell lingers my senses over the years still. Such my favorite scent.” Its interleaved remark before turning back at her with the original answer she needed.  

“Have you ever wonder of your mom’s death was actually?”

Blowing the smoke of its tobacco close to her while she remained unwavering, he continued. “Cancer?” his questioning stance after proceeding with another as he shakes his head and takes her chin, up to level his gape.

“She was killed.”

Firm and self-assertive statement before letting go of its hold, opposite to how she’s already clenching her fist tightly from behind. Observant stares from the latter but just a stern look she does. Hot fire ready to explode into her, a little more and she won’t be surprised if she blasts out any time soon.

With a tilting of its head, the old Alcaziar continues. “Brave.” A compliment she did not bother. “You being jeopardize and all, I must say you applaud me with your calmness.” Him, leaning its face closely to her, “Now listen, my sweet little pea…” he speaks. And just like that, she spits him while it’s also too fast for his countered slap.  

It was a hard one. Hard enough to leave a reddened mark on her face. It hurts her, yes but she holds it in. Letting herself satisfy with her work instead. Her contoured saliva which successfully spread all over the latter’s face gives her pride for she thought it was her chance to fight back just to shiver by his touch after fiercely wiping its own face, cupping her face tracing every part of it like his own. 

“You only had me realize a while ago that you resemble so much of your mother that I keep stopping myself on hitting you, but just looking by your behavior right now you left me with no choice. The next time you will then I, your father won’t let it slide anymore.”

“You aren’t one to begin with, geezer!”

Dodging her cheeks from his hold, she retorted. “Father! Call me father!” as his domineering affirmation came after an irate throwing of its own tobacco. Eyes of obsession starts to ponder, jaws clenching with delusion. “Your mother died…  Isn’t because of the unexplainable rapid of her cancer but rather she stopped it on purpose.”

A series of sham speech begins to create. “All of it. Each reason, is always because of that Sung Chanhyung! The f*cking coño stole the love of my life from me! You understand that?”

“You have no right!” she countered.

“I met your mother first! And that alone, gives me a right. That crazy s*cker killed her!”

“No, it’s not for you are the crazy one who killed them!!!”

She can’t attain anymore. That with the mere mention of his father being accused, she exploded. Finally, as it’s too fast for another heavy slap to earn a cut on her lips this time. Yet, none of it matters for she’s occupied with one thought and only. As her brows furrows, connecting its illusive stories to reality. Half-truths or not, she can only sum up the emotions her parents felt back then. 

Threatened, deceived, betrayed. Just three things but left a large impact for their blissful family to fall apart. “Is that how the bastardo taught you?! That puto! Why am I surprised, even? He had brainwashed my wife what more with you.”

“She had never been yours!”

“She loved me! And that you should put in mind. We were in love until he came she became unwise, giving her all as sacrifice from that foolish man!”

“Wake up with your f*cking illusion now Señor Alcaziar!”

He’s insane! A very factual word that best describes the man in front of her. That’s for sure. How can she believe him even when she herself was the witness of the unconditional love her parents had for each other? She, who begged for the both of them to share their love story during bedtimes. She, who always wonder about how lovesick they are just by staring gazes. She maybe still a little kid then but for a young age she had once known what true love is. Her parents, was undeniably each other’s first love.      

“Eh. You, stubborn child. You’re being hard to persuade still, huh?” Hair being clutched by the senseless old man, she yelps. By its menacing impatience, she’s cornered. “You better kill me instead, Señor Alcaziar. You will never hear anything from me. Besides, I’m all that you need anyway. What stopping you?”

Her spoken counter finally. But yet until a deafening laughing mockery from the latter. “Oh! No, no, no. You can’t always be exact my kid. I guess I did, at first. I had only asked for you alone, but learning about you further I got to think twice after. Then at second, I thought. Why not a little gratification, right?”        

Seconds later, the once darkened room she’s in, becomes brighter. It relieved her somehow, little not knowing that it would fade away too fast as her eyes begins to go round in shock. She was frightened.

The sight of her foster parents, seen from the monitors of the LCD TV, tied up on a chair unconscious. And to the person whom she never expected to get harmed. Being kneeled helplessly across her, appearance being tormented from its usual dominancy.  A bleeding cut from the eyes streaming on its face, swollen lips that had break its original luscious form, but most specially… the part which worried her too much.

Its wounded stomach. 

“No…”

“No, no, no.”

‘This can’t be real.’ Her disbelieving pushing of her own thoughts as she shakes her head hoping that is was all a dream. But it’s not. Her shuddered eyes never left the figure in front of her. Twisting herself trying to get away from her own situation even if it means failing. “There you are, Mi niña.”

Not even the voice of the crazy Spaniard bothered her for all she could think of is him.

And like a sinking lioness, she bawled.

Into what just the hell happened?!

“Jang Taeyoung!”

[hitsuackerman]

Unpredictable (Overhaul x Reader) pt.6

a/n: uhm... a lot happens here tbh xD its pretty long tho ;)

warnings: this cannot be read solo, a bit of harassment

Links: part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, part 5, part 7

Masterlist to my other fics: here :)

Overhaul’s waiting list: @jjk-biased​​ @infinite-universe-love​​ @dirtypride​ @blackymomo03​ 

The ride was quick and you were now facing the entrance of the hotel. The facade of the hotel looked like it was fresh from a Gatsby movie. Golden lights illuminated every few meters of the hotel making it glow ethereally. Counting the floors from your window, you estimated it to be 8 or 9 floors. It was extravagant. Nothing more to it.

When the car drove to the entrance, the doorman was quick to open the door once the car came to  halt. It was a surprise when Overhaul offered his arm to help you get out of the vehicle, in those killer heels, you had to accept. Biting your inner cheek, you had to admire how solid his arm was and how classy his tux felt.

The contact was short. Once he saw you were out, he wasted no second of removing his arm from your hand. Walking 5 steps ahead, you didn’t bother complaining with his actions. Somehow, it was also better this way. This gave you more opportunities to move freely.

The same doorman quickly opened the main entrance and even asked for your coat.

Once the coat was gone, you felt the chilly wind graze your back. It wasn’t too much to handle, of course. Your body just had to adjust. As you were thanking the employee, you failed to see how your companion did a double take when he saw just how classy you looked in your outfit. He would never say it but, he caught himself just before his jaw could drop any further. Thank goodness he had the mask.

“You clean up nicely.” He commented.

You matched his pace effortlessly and realized that he had just complimented you. Facing him, your mouth formed a small ‘o’ and once again, you blinded him with a smile. Strangely enough, even for him, it was satisfying.

“You just complimented me~” Your voice was playful and the cheeky grin on your face was something you just couldn’t hold back. “You look sanitized yourself.”

Underneath the mask, he couldn’t fight back the developing smirk. This would be an interesting night, he was almost certain.

Calling to mind the invitation, the event would take place in the biggest event hall the establishment had. Once you were inside the elevator, the built in LCD screen monitor showed to you which floor you had to go to. As soon as the screen was tapped, the elevators went up and the music began to play.

Of all the things your mind could have thought of, you recalled what Gei said. On how if he were to ever disappear when the food would come, you could find him in the men’s toilet. Lowering your head, you tried to hold back your laughter. It all backfired when you ended up snorting.

“What’s so funny?” Overhaul asked. His eyes remained focused on the LCD screen.

“Nothing that concerns you…” You replied. Fingers covering a portion of your mouth. Curse Gei and his imagination. Clearing your throat, you quickly changed the subject. “So, what exactly is going to happen in the gala?”

“From what I have gathered, the head of the Fukuo Kai wants to gather a few villains to join him.”

“How would he do that though?”

The doors opened and both of you were now facing a hallway, letting you step out first, he followed shortly. Both of you walking side by side, with a safe distance in between. The hallway floors were carpeted red and the entire area smelled of roses. Noticing that he was still silent, he was probably thinking what ways the boss could gather people.

“It would probably depend on his mood.” He finally answered.

When the event hall was now in front of you, rope barriers lined up showing you where to go. Though there was really no need since it was just a straight walk from where you stood. There was a golden podium with 2 uniformed staff ready to greet you both.

“Names?” The taller one asked.

“Shinoda.” Overhaul answered.

Now that you heard him saying a name, it had dawned to you that the profile you had for him did not include his real name. Surely that wasn’t his real name. The way he said it so nonchalantly made it look so natural. What was his name? It would be a rather personal question to ask and that was something you weren’t ready for. Not yet, at least.

When the doors were open, the soft classical music serenaded your ears. The lights were dim but the spotlight on the stage was bright as ever. Tailing behind your partner, he brought you to a high top bar near a large window. He thought it would be a good vantage point to quietly observe people.

A waiter came by and filled your water goblets up. Observing the room, there were still plenty of vacant tables. It had only been 20 minutes since you left the house, so there was still 40 left to kill.

“How did you get the invite, Shinoda?” You asked him. It was weird saying that name. Somehow, it just didn’t fit his face. “It was sent to the Shie Hassaikai.” He replied as he began to remove the strap from his right ear. Holy shit. He was actually going to take his mask off. Except, there was a gut feeling in you that didn’t want him to.

“Wait…” You managed to speak. He froze in place, his smooth cheek now partially exposed. What you'd give to see all of him but things just felt off around here. It was as if a pair of eyes were watching your every move. Playing it off as a normal conversation, you broke eye contact and surveyed the area once more. “Don’t take your mask off.”

How you told him subtly hit different. He didn’t really care if people saw him without the mask during an event like this. Yes, he’s the Shie Hassaikai boss but he preferred to stay away from the limelight. Were you actually thinking of his safety despite him being more than capable of defending himself? Either way, he placed the strap back on and watched as the hall became packed.

With the hall now jam packed, the both of you went separate ways but agreed to come back after 30 minutes.

Blending in with the group was basic to you. What made things difficult was the possibility of Akuji catching your train of thought. Trying to look for a familiar face, you were only met by stares from the guests.

“Looking for me, pretty lady?” A voice said from behind you. Turning around you were met with a man with piercing gray eyes. His hair kept back and his stubble framing his jaw. Stretching a hand, you accepted it out of courtesy. “Name’s Akuji.”

Swiftly transferring his grip to your wrist, he pulled you towards a secluded high top table. Yanking you even closer, he snaked his arm around your waist and held on to your side firmly.

“So what’s a fine lady like you doing in a gala like this?” His face, a little too close for your liking.

“I’ve heard about you.” There was no room for thinking. Whatever came to your thoughts, you had to say it. “You have a pretty strong quirk. What brings you here?”

“I have some business to deal with. You with someone, sweetcheeks?”

“My boss.”

“And who might that ‘boss’ be?” He brushed his nose on your cheek. Feeling you trying to push yourself away, he tightened his grip on your waist and pulled you in even tighter. The faint smell of mint and cigarette was not the best scent.

“Shinoda.” You promptly answered. Saving no room for complaining thoughts. “Though, he will be displeased if he sees you groping me like this. He’s quite known for his anger issues.”

“A threat?” His eyes widened with delight. Just as he was about to talk, a deep voice introduced itself. Turning both of you around, you stared at an old but muscular man. His hair gray, face a tad wrinkled, but his frame showed years of hard work. “Ah. Just who I wanted to see.”

“Still cornering women, Akuji?” The man said. He rested his elbow on the bar and eyed you. A satisfied nod followed as he looked at the man still touching your waist. “What’s your name?”

“I was instructed not to casually give my name.” That was a good one. But was it good enough? “He says not to trust anyone here.”

“Fair enough.” The old man replied. Looking back at Akuji, he cleared his throat and reached for something in his breast pocket. Extending his hand, a business card sat snuggly in between his index and middle finger. Akuji stared at the card and hummed.

“Well, it would be a pleasure~” He shortly tucked his hand and the card in his pocket. “Till then.”

It had barely been 5 minutes and the two men had already gone separate ways. Akuji, however, still kept his hold on you. His actions had changed from groping to steady up and down movements. It was evident he was enjoying the sensation of touching another woman.

“Sir,” You finally had enough. This would be the second time someone defiled you today and you were not living. “If you don’t let go of me I swear, there will be consequences.”

“Feisty.”

“Did you not hear what she said?”

Glancing over your shoulder, you were more than relieved seeing his face. But, the look in his eyes and the aura he was giving was something you had not felt before. His usual calm features were replaced with his eyebrows pulled down together. The same golden eyes you came to adore were glaring at the man holding on to you. His fingers began to play with the hems of his left hand’s glove.

“Shinoda-san!” Akuji greeted Overhaul. His palms remained glued to your dress. “What happened to that previous secretary of yours? The one with blue hair? Was he not to your liking?”

“Akuji.” Overhaul’s voice was deep and his jaw clenched. You watched as he freed his hand from the rubber confinement. “Let her go.”

You felt your mind lighten. His grip on your thoughts was now nonexistent. If your hypothesis was right, Akuji was now focused on reading Overhaul’s mind. Perhaps that was his quirks downfall, he could only do it one person at a time…

“Someone’s protective of their employee~” Akuji taunted Overhaul. Either this man was dumb or just plain fearless. Attempting to hold on to Overhaul’s wrist, he managed to read his mind and went with the left one instead. When his hand made contact with Overhaul’s exposed skin, he saw the look of hatred and disgust in his eyes.

“This is why I don’t like attending events like these.” Lifting his other hand, you saw how he had overhauled his left hand’s glove. Not wanting to catch attention or to cause a scene, you immediately ran and wedged yourself between the two men. Your palm resting on his chest as you pushed him ever so slightly.

“Enough. Shinoda-san.” You tried to calm him down. He was still focused on Akuji. Finding the courage, you managed to snake your hand and cup his masked cheek. Your hands were shaky as you had literally just invaded his personal space even more. When you managed to make him face you, you stared into his pupils and gave him a small smile. “Calm down. Not here. Please.”

Feeling his chest lower as he exhaled, his eyes darted back to Akuji.

“Don’t touch me.” Pulling his wrist away, his free hand held on to your waist as he tugged you closer towards him. “And do not ever touch her with your filthy hands.”

Putting his palms into the air, Akuji took a step back. The picture in Overhaul’s mind was one he would rather not want to read again. Ogling one more time at you, he lowered his head with a smirk before he left the both of you alone.

Allowing yourself to be dragged by him all the way back to your table, you kept stealing glances at his face. He was still angry but his level-headed state was slowly coming back. Upon arriving at the table, he still hadn’t let you go from his hold. Craning your neck to look at him, you waited for him to talk.

“Explain what the hell just happened.”

“I was trying to look for how he would gather people but then I remembered that Akuji would be here. I recalled that he could read minds and I think he used his quirk on me.” You explained. Heart beating rapidly in your chest. “I wanted to think up something but I realized that it would only result in failure.”

Now that you were talking about it, you remembered the exchange they had.

“But I got something out of it. There was this old man who gave him a business card. Perhaps it could be related?”

Rubbing the bridge of his nose with his left hand, he reached for something in his pocket and presented it to you. Your eyes widened when you saw the same one from before.

“That man you just saw was the leader of the Fukuo Kai.” Placing the small piece of paper on the table, he looked at you once more. The look and feel of his anger, gone. “Be more careful. It would be most troublesome to have to clean up any sort of mess.”

Noticing that the skin on his wrist was inflamed, you chewed on your lower lip and felt your guilt rising.

“You’re breaking out.” You pointed out.

“What are you talking about?” The arm wrapped around your waist was feeling fine.

“Your wrist. Where he touched you.”

Right. He forgot about that. Shaking his head, he brushed your statement and told you he could fix it in an instant. Freeing you from his arm, he took a step back and began to heal himself. It was only a small patch of skin so it was gone in a matter of seconds.

Taking the card, you placed it in your purse. Telling him that you got what you needed, he reached for his phone and called for the car to pick the both of you up. The air between you two began to grow more and more tense as the seconds flowed by. It wasn’t long before he received the message that the car was now waiting at the drop-off area.

Inside the elevator, the silence was killing you. The music was nothing but a nuisance.

“Are you mad?” Breaking the silence. He did not answer nor bother to look at you. “Look. I’m sorry, okay? I lowered my guard down for a few seconds and it led to all of this.”

“Learn from what just happened, (L/N).” His eyes eventually found yours. “I might not be there to help you.”

“Thank you, though.” Heat was now rising to your cheeks, you knew it. “For saving me back there.”

The doors opened and you stepped out first. As the both of you walked towards the lobby, you saw the car on the opposite side of the door. The doorman recognized you and immediately went to the back to fetch your coat. Accepting your clothing, you wished him a safe night before exiting the hotel.

Seated in the car once more, you let out a long sigh and leaned onto the backrest. Your trench coat, jacket, and your boxed heels laid in front of you. With everything that had happened, you failed to get any food in your system. The WcMac you ate had already vanished.

“Overhaul.” You were really going to do it.

“Hm?”

“I’m hungry…”

“You’re really burden, do you know that?” Lowering the partition by 2 inches, he faced you once more. “What do you want to eat?”

“Mendy’s…” If you could melt into the leather chairs, you would.

“And stuff your face with grease?” Whatever you could see of his face was etched with annoyance. But the way his pupils were a bit dilated told you otherwise. “Nemoto. Shipotle, now.”

“Shipotle?” You questioned as the partition closed. “You seriously think they’re healthy?”

“No.” He replied flatly. “But they have a decent menu offering healthy meals. Take it or leave it.”

“Fine. I won’t complain.”

After the short drive thru in Shipotle (Nemoto and Chrono also ordered but they didn’t tell), your hands were now full and Overhaul was carrying both your jackets. Quickly opening your door, you placed your food on the small table beside the door and took both your jackets from him. When you saw the jacket your boss defiled, you felt like puking and seized it in your hands.

Overhaul was standing in the lobby. Probably to say farewell.

“I have one last favor.” You lifted the piece of clothing and gestured for him to hold it. “Destroy it.”

“May I ask why?” He wouldn’t mind tearing it apart but the request was all too sudden. Something must have happened a few hours ago, he knew it.

“It’s filthy.” That’s all it took. Witnessing his quirk in action, you saw how the cloth morphed and seemingly exploded into nothing. “Wow.”

“Any more favors?”

“None that I can think of.” You beamed. Once again, you couldn’t see it but his jaw dropped underneath the mask.

“In that case,” He bowed. “I shall take my leave.”

“Good night, Overhaul.”

“And to you, (L/N).”

-----

so.... did yall like the smol interaction with bird daddy? feel free to message me if you have any questions or if you wanna be tagged :) take care!

[loadcustom808]

Best Monitor For Apple Mac Pro 2010

ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6 inch Full HD Monitor This is one of the best portable monitors which can easily fit inside your gear bag.

Best Apple Monitor

I have just bought 3x apple cinema 20' displays (the old school kind) and just wanted to check if I need adaptors and which kind. I'm just unsure of what type/size/resolution requires what. And it's on my 2010 Mac pro with the stock ATI Radeon HD 5770 graphics card with 1 GB of GDDR5 memory.

Whether it's for your MacBook Pro or your Windows laptop you’re looking to buy a USB-C monitor for, the BenQ EW3270U is a great all-around choice. This 4K display delivers beautiful picture quality.

Twelve cores and twenty-four threads—that's what I'm sitting in front of. Even after owning an 8-core Nehalem Xeon Mac Pro, I just wasn't prepared for the 8 extra threads in my new shiny new 12-core Westmere Xeon Mac Pro. It's just that crazy. Sometimes, you look up at the menu bar and you think that Iran has Photoshopped extra iStat CPU bars up there, to convince you of this machine's awesome powers:

Every time that happens, I hear a Black Sabbath guitar solo off in the distance, and my mouse hand does this of its own accord:

But then the smoke machine fog dies down, and I'm left with the rest of my programs that don't cause multi-core god rays to appear. This is life with many cores.

Custom-built Mac Pro 2010 specs

Dual-socket six-core 2.66GHz Westmere Xeon Mac Pro

15GB RAM

OCZ Vertex Turbo 120GB system disk

2TB striped RAID working disk

ATI 5870 1GB

dual NEC 2490WUXi LCDs at 1920x1200

Comparison 2009 Mac Pro

Dual quad-core 2.66GHz Nehalem Xeon Mac Pro

24GB RAM

OCZ Vertex Turbo 120GB system disk

2TB striped RAID working disk

ATI 4870 512MB

dual NEC 2490WUXi LCDs at 1920x1200

Both machines are using the same hard drives—I reformatted the system disk and put it in the new Mac Pro after running the benchmarks on the 2009 Mac Pro.

The Hardware

The 2010 Mac Pro now comes with an 802.11n Wi-Fi card by default. I always use wired, but this was a dumb thing to make an upgrade because there are times you find you need wireless. The new Mac Pros also come with the magic mouse.

Advertisement

There isn't much else to say about the 2010 internals that wasn't said already in my 2009 Mac Pro review. That's no complaint—the internals of this machine are great, and not much was in need of revising. It's still the easiest Mac ever to upgrade, and all the goodies like the thumbscrew PCI card block are still there:

The memory bay count of eight is still unchanged, so users need to be careful not to fill them for the sake of filling them. My 15GB RAM allocation may seem gross as a number, but it's the proper pairing:

Combining three 1GB with three 4GB modules means that the memory is in running in triple-channel mode. Filling all eight slots wouldn't be the best way to go.

The ATI Radeon 5870

Since I do 3D work, I upgraded from the Radeon 5770 to the Radeon 5870. On a purely aesthetic level, it's a beautiful design:

The 5870 has three outputs: one dual-link DVI and two mini DiplayPorts, so it should drive three screens with resolutions as high as the 27' that Apple just released. I wanted to test it with three LCDs, and thought it would work without any hitches, since my triple 1920x1200 screens are on the conservative side. After receiving a second single-link mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter, I've only been able to use two and, it seems, this is not a bug. If you want to connect to DVI displays (no matter the resolution), you have to use the more expensive mini DisplayPort-to-dual-link-DVI adapters. Apple's docs covering this issue are here:

Best Apple Monitor

Just when I was beginning to like mini DisplayPort...

[deanstop13billyjoeltraxx]

Superposition

a deancas college roommates AU

Dean Winchester had it all at Wichita State University — a second chance, a future devoid of his father, and a roommate-turned-best friend who understands him inside and out.

But his father dies, he fails out in his second semester, and Castiel Novak leaves without so much as a goodbye.

Three years later, Dean has picked up the pieces. He works at the most trusted auto-shop in Lawrence, he’s putting Sam through college. Dean thinks it can’t get much better than that.

Then Castiel Novak gives him a concussion, and everything falls apart. Again.

Chapter 2 is up on AO3 (and below the cut)! Tumblr chapter masterlist here.

Classic Rock and Other Foreign Concepts

Three Years Earlier

Castiel Novak was ready for his second chance. 

Sure, the name “Wichita State University” held no cache, and sure, it was only two hours away from home. But it was a full ride, it was free of old high school acquaintances. It was enough. 

Castiel stood at the door of his empty dorm room, hope blooming in his chest as he regarded the dingy bunks and linoleum floors. 

He didn’t have much in the way of belongings, so moving in was quick and easy, even by himself. Castiel made his bed, hung up his limited outfits in the dresser, and filled his desk with his books and paper. Only one thing remained in his suitcase — a picture of his family, two Christmases ago. Castiel took it out and looked at it for a moment, before deciding to place it on his desk. 

He decided it might be a good idea to familiarize himself with his new surroundings. That was sure to calm down the inevitable anxiety that his first trip to the showers would bring. Castiel strolled down the hallway, doing his best to stay out of the way of all of the other freshmen moving in on his floor. 

After successfully discovering the bathroom and the water fountain, as well as narrowly avoiding an awkward encounter with two giggling girls who were apparently intent upon introducing themselves to him, he returned to his room with a sigh.

Castiel moved to his desk and opened his computer. He pulled up his course schedule, reviewing it again, despite having already committed it to memory. Tuesdays and Thursdays would be difficult, he thought, with financial accounting, economics, and an intro to business. The other days were more interesting, holding philosophy, creative writing, and nineteenth century British literature. 

Castiel was about to read the class descriptions for the millionth time when a loud thud and a grunt interrupted his thoughts. He stood up, fast, almost knocking his head on the bottom of his bed. Castiel got to his open door just in time to almost run into someone. 

“Shit! Watch it, man!”

Castiel found himself face to face with… Plastic storage bins. The man holding them shifted to reveal a mild scowl. Castiel cleared out of his way, and the man set the three boxes down. 

“Sorry,” Castiel muttered. 

“You’re fine,” the man grumbled. “Sorry, long drive.”

“Dean Winchester, I presume?” Castiel said, cautiously. He had seen his roommate assignment online weeks earlier.

“Damn straight,” Dean said, and he offered a hand out to Castiel, who accepted it graciously. “Sorry, man, I’m terrible with names. Have we met?” 

“I’m Castiel Novak,” Castiel replied, then added, “We haven’t met, but the website informed me of your name and email address. I emailed you a few weeks back.” 

Dean nodded. “I definitely didn’t respond. Sorry ‘bout that, I kind of haven’t had access to the internet in… Well, it’s a long story. Anyway, good to meet you.” 

“You as well. Do you need any help unpacking?” 

“Least you can do after nearly killing me.” Castiel tensed, but then Dean clapped him on the back. “Kidding. Help would be great.”

Castiel moved to unpack the box nearest him, but Dean stopped him with a hand on his arm.

“No! Uh, not that one. No offense, but that’s the most important thing I own. Give me a second, you can start on this one.” 

Castiel tilted his head in inquisition, but Dean said nothing more, just got to unpacking the bin. Castiel set to work on the second of the three, first grabbing the sheets to make the bed. 

When Castiel had finished with Dean’s bed, he turned to see Dean had set up a record player and a pair of bookshelf speakers on the floor. 

“Behold,” Dean announced. “My prized possession.” 

“A record player?” Castiel asked. 

“Not just the record player,” Dean said. He went back to the box, which Castiel could now see was filled with vinyl LPs. “The whole collection.”

“It’s quite impressive.”

“Fuckin’ A-right,” Dean said. “Here, you like Zeppelin?” 

“Embarrassingly, I have no idea who that is,” Castiel said, blushing.

Dean’s eyes widened. “Dude! No way! Oh man, it’s time to educate you. How have you survived this long Zeppelin-less?” 

“My father was strict about music.” Castiel felt suddenly very nervous that this, combined with his near-toppling of Dean moments earlier, would have him solidly fixed on Dean’s bad side. But Dean was flipping through his records with animation, as if Castiel’s ignorance was a game to be won. 

“That’s utter bullshit,” Dean declared. “Here, listen to this.”

Dean put on Led Zeppelin IV. Castiel turned back to the plastic bins, intent upon doing something while the record played. He was quiet as he worked, setting up first an ancient-looking coffee maker, then a small, LCD monitor. Dean unpacked his clothes, quietly singing along to the music.

“Do you need help with the rest?” Castiel asked when they had finished, assuming there had to be more than just those three boxes. Dean chuckled quietly. 

“Nah, this is it. Thanks for the help, Castiel.” 

Castiel raised an eyebrow, but only said, “You’re welcome.” Dean had brought even less than he had. 

“That’s a weird name, by the way,” Dean said, turning the volume down on the speakers. “Castiel. It sounds kind of --” 

“Ancient?” Castiel supplied, and Dean nodded. “That’s because it is. It’s adapted from the name of an angel in the third book of Enoch.” At Dean’s blank look, Castiel added, “Christian apocryphal lore. My parents are very religious.” 

“Ah,” Dean said. “And you…?”

“Haven’t been to church since I was fourteen,” Castiel finished. “We are very different, my family and I.” 

Dean nodded. “That them?” He asked, pointing at the picture on Castiel’s desk. 

“Yes,” Castiel said. 

“That’s a lot of kids.” 

“Yes, there’s five of us.” 

“Road trips must have been fun,” Dean said.

This actually got a laugh out of Castiel. 

“I’ve only got one. My kid brother, Sam,” Dean said.

“How old is Sam?”

“God.” Dean rubbed his face, considering. “I guess he’s fourteen now. It’s weird — I feel like I can never see him as any older than, like, eight.”

“I can’t say I understand,” Castiel replied. “I’m the youngest.” 

“Damn, that must suck, four older siblings. What’re their names?”

Castiel picked up the picture. “The boy on the left — he’s the oldest — that’s Gabriel. The other is Bartholomew. The redhead is Anna. And then there’s Hannah, she’s just a couple years older than me.” 

Dean nodded, moving to his record player. He pulled a small, worn piece of paper from the inside. 

“This is old as hell,” he said, showing Castiel the picture, “but that’s my dad, and that’s Sam when he was… ten, maybe?” 

“It’s just the three of you?”

“Yeah, my mom died when I was, like, four.”

“I apologize, I didn’t mean to --” 

“No worries, man,” Dean said. “Long time ago.”

There was an awkward pause that made Castiel want to open his computer just to look preoccupied, but Dean spoke. 

“I’m sorry, I can’t get over this name stuff. I can’t be roommates with a dude named after an angel.” 

Castiel felt his entire body deflate. Day one, and just his name was already making things difficult. “I’m… Sure there’s a way to switch roommates. But, what’s wrong with being named after an angel?”

“Dude, I was totally joking,” Dean said, putting his hands up defensively. “I’m not switching roommates — unless you’re secretly a vampire or something.” Castiel smiled at that. “And there’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just not into the whole religion thing. Makes me feel weird. Nah, I’ll just have to call you something else. Any suggestions?” 

“I’ve always just been ‘Castiel.’” 

“Man, haven’t had many creative friends,” Dean said. “Cas it is, then.” 

“Cas?” Castiel replied. He considered the new nickname. Castiel actually found it strange that no one had ever thought of it before, now that he had heard it. “I suppose it is a great deal shorter.”

“Easier to say, too,” Dean said. “It fits.”

Castiel smiled tentatively. “Sure.” 

The music faded, and Dean flipped the record to the B-side. 

“What do you think so far?” He asked. 

“It’s certainly different than what I’m used to. In a good way,” Castiel added. 

Dean beamed at him. “Awesome. I have more in here, too, and it’s not just Zep. Mostly the classics — the Stones, Rush, AC/DC… And a shit load of grunge, too. Man, wait til you hear Alice in Chains…” 

Castiel smiled at his animation. “Music is important to you?” 

“Dude, I couldn’t function without music. I feel like every time I listen to a song I like, I find something new that makes it even better.” Dean chuckled to himself. “Sorry, I’m geeking out about classic rock.”

“I don’t mind,” Castiel said, and he found that it was true. “I feel similarly about books.” 

“You like to read?”

“Immensely.” 

“You’ll have to give me some recommendations. I read Vonnegut in high school, and that was cool, but other than that and Harry Potter I think I’m pretty hopeless.”

“I will,” Castiel said, even though he knew he wouldn’t, even though he knew Dean was simply saying the polite thing. He had learned by now that when people asked about him to talk about the things he liked, they were just being nice. 

Dean asked Castiel which end of the hall the bathrooms were on, and excused himself.

When he returned, Dean clapped his hands together. “So,” he said. “I gotta ask you the Freshman Questions.” At Castiel’s confused look, he elaborated: “You know, the two things you ask everyone for your whole freshman year. Where are you from, what are you majoring in?” 

Castiel nodded. “I see. I didn’t know there was a procedure.” 

Dean looked at him for a moment. “It’s not — I was kinda joking.” 

“Oh. Right,” Castiel said, rubbing his neck. “Well, I’m from Guthrie — it’s a small town in Oklahoma, just a few hours south of here. And I’m studying accounting and creative writing.” 

“Guthrie… I’ve driven through there, on our way to Oklahoma City for a job my dad worked once,” Dean said. 

“It’s not very impressive.” 

Dean laughed. “Nah, not really.” 

“What about you, Dean?”

“I’m from Lawrence — it’s northeast of here. And I have no fucking idea what I’m gonna major in,” he said. “I’m not really… Well, Sam is the smart one. That kid is gonna kick ass when he goes to school. I’m kinda just here to…” Dean trailed off. 

“Experience it?” Castiel suggested. Dean shrugged. 

“Yeah, I guess.” He cleared his throat. “Why accounting? I get the writing thing, you said you like books — but accounting? I feel like those two don’t mix.”

“They don’t,” Castiel agreed. “But I don’t want to be a starving author. I do want to be able to take care of myself.” I want to be far, far away from everything I’ve ever known. I want to leave and never look back.

“Fair,” Dean said. “I don’t know about you, Cas, but I’m starving. Wanna grab some dinner?” 

“Sure,” Castiel said with a smile.

 The next day, in his first creative writing class, the professor asked each of them to share their major, their hometown, and a fun fact. He called, “Novak, Castiel?” 

“Double major in accounting and writing. I’m from Guthrie, Oklahoma. I suppose a fun fact is that I’m named after an angel, but you can just call me Cas.”